Bill Allowing Gun Silencers Gathering Support At MN Capitol
MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO/AP) -- A bill that would allow silencers on guns is gaining support at the State Capitol.
Currently, the devices are banned in Minnesota, but the House Public Safety and Crime Prevention Committee passed a measure legalizing them.
Silencers don't completely eliminate the sound of a gunshot.
Supporters say the quieter levels will protect shooter's hearing. Critics argue they'd help criminals cover up their crime.
The committee also unanimously passed a measure that would repeal the current requirement that gun owners notify state officials before carrying a firearm into state buildings, instead automatically approving permitted owners.
A third proposal clarifying Minnesota residents' ability to buy guns in other states also passed unanimously.
Gov. Mark Dayton said he doesn't plan on changing the state's gun laws.
